Morgan State students return to school focused on safety
Following the killings of two students in off-campus incidents last school year, students and staffers at Morgan State University are focused on safety.
Morgan State University President David Wilson greeted students Monday, assuring them their safety is a top priority. Wilson handed out healthy treats and answered questions about safety. Wilson said a number of security changes are in place, especially for students who live off campus.
"We have put in place some direct shuttles to and from apartment complexes where students are staying. We are also constructing a walk path from Morgan View Apartments to the campus that will be well-lighted and secured 24/7," Wilson said.
Campus Police Chief Lance Hatcher said there will be 42 sworn officers on campus this year. They do foot, bike, Segway and car patrols.
"We also provide some community engagement activities with students to tell them and show them what safe areas they should be in and areas they should pay more attention to. We also do safety escorts," Hatcher said.
Students are paying attention to that advice.
"I don't walk late and I made sure all my classes end early and stuff like that," student Alyssa Belizario said.
Student Government Association President Keyon Grayson said he's confident about the efforts administrators are making.
"A lot of these incidents are happening off campus and the police patrol to make sure that students are safe," Grayson said.
In an effort to get more students living on campus, the school is fast-tracking the construction of a 900-bed residence hall that will be ready in the fall of 2022.
Wilson said he plans to go to Annapolis to ask the state for 20 more police officers.
10 top safety tips every student should follow
- Get to know the campus and its surroundings. Review the 3-D map on the university's website or download a copy of the map onto your phone. Join MSUPD on scheduled Safety Walks.
- Use MSUPD Safety Escorts. You can contact the escort service by calling 443-885-3103.
- Don't allow technology to make you unaware of your surroundings. Don't walk around with both earbuds in and the music playing. Don't constantly look down at your smart devices. Look up sometimes and look around.
- Never walk alone at night. Be sure to walk with a friend or in a group.
- Have a plan for emergencies.
- Avoid becoming inebriated and losing control. Excessive alcohol usage can lead to bad situations.
- Never stay at a party when your friends leave. If you all came together, you should leave together.
- Lock your room door to safeguard your valuables. Also, you should avoid opening your room door to strangers.
- Sign up for MSU Alert. You can go to the Morgan website home page to register and start receiving the safety alerts. You are also encouraged to download the official MSU mobile app.
- If you see something, please say something. Your assistance in helping us to monitor the campus enhances the overall safety. The MSU Police Department can be reached at 443-885-3100.